Experiencing changes in your bowel movements around your period is incredibly common, and for many women, this can unfortunately include pain. You might find yourself asking, “Why Does It Hurt To Poop On My Period?” or wondering about the connection between your menstrual cycle and your bathroom habits. It’s a valid question, as period-related bowel issues, often called ‘period poops’, can range from diarrhea to constipation and sometimes, significant discomfort.
Studies show that a large majority of women – around 73% – experience gastrointestinal symptoms during their periods. These symptoms are diverse, but pain during bowel movements is a significant concern for many. Let’s delve into the reasons behind period poops and why they can sometimes be painful.
The Link Between Periods and Poop Problems
The primary culprit behind period poops is a group of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Just before your period begins, your body releases prostaglandins to help your uterus contract and shed its lining. This process is essential for menstruation. However, prostaglandins don’t just target the uterus; they also affect other smooth muscle tissues in your body, including your bowels.
When prostaglandins reach your intestines, they can cause the muscles there to contract more frequently. This increased activity in your bowels is what often leads to more frequent bowel movements and even diarrhea during your period.
Why Does It Hurt to Poop During My Period?
While increased bowel activity is a key factor, the pain you experience when pooping on your period can be due to a combination of factors:
- Increased Bowel Sensitivity: During menstruation, your body is more sensitive overall. The heightened activity in your bowels, driven by prostaglandins, can be felt more intensely. This can translate to discomfort or pain during bowel movements that might not be present at other times of the month.
- Intensified Cramping: Period cramps themselves are caused by uterine contractions, again driven by prostaglandins. These cramps can sometimes radiate to the surrounding areas, including your bowels. The increased muscle contractions in both your uterus and bowels can overlap and amplify feelings of discomfort and pain, particularly when you are trying to have a bowel movement.
- Inflammation: Prostaglandins are also involved in inflammation. The inflammatory response in your pelvic area during menstruation can make your bowels more sensitive and reactive, leading to painful bowel movements.
Essentially, your bowels are working harder and are more sensitive during your period. This combination can make pooping uncomfortable, and for some, genuinely painful.
Period Poops: Diarrhea and Constipation
It’s important to note that ‘period poops’ aren’t just limited to diarrhea. While increased bowel movements and loose stools are common, some women experience constipation before or during their period. This is often due to another hormone: progesterone.
- Diarrhea: As discussed, prostaglandins are a major cause of period diarrhea. They stimulate bowel contractions, leading to more frequent and looser stools.
- Constipation: Before your period starts, levels of progesterone rise. Progesterone can have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles in your gut, slowing down the movement of waste through your digestive system. This slower transit time can lead to constipation in the days leading up to your period.
Therefore, period poops can manifest in different ways, and pain can accompany both diarrhea and constipation, although the causes might be slightly different.
IBS and Period Poops: A Challenging Mix
For women with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), period poops can be particularly challenging. IBS is a condition that already makes the digestive system more sensitive. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can exacerbate IBS symptoms.
Studies have shown that women with IBS often experience a worsening of their symptoms during their period. This can include increased abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including both diarrhea and constipation. The hormonal shifts of the menstrual cycle, particularly the surge in prostaglandins, can trigger more intense IBS flare-ups, making period poops more frequent, unpredictable, and often more painful for those with IBS.
Managing Period Poop Pain and Discomfort
While period poops and associated pain are common, there are strategies to help manage the discomfort:
- Stay Hydrated: Whether you are experiencing diarrhea or constipation, staying well-hydrated is crucial. Water helps to soften stools and can ease bowel movements. If you have diarrhea, it’s especially important to replenish lost fluids.
- Increase Fiber Gradually: If constipation is an issue, increasing your fiber intake can help. However, do so gradually, as a sudden increase in fiber can sometimes worsen bloating and gas. Focus on fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Diet Adjustments: Pay attention to foods that might trigger your digestive system, especially during your period. Some women find that limiting caffeine, alcohol, and fatty or processed foods can help reduce bowel discomfort.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: For pain and cramps, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce prostaglandin production and alleviate both menstrual cramps and bowel discomfort.
- Warm Compress or Bath: Applying a warm compress to your abdomen or taking a warm bath can help relax your muscles and ease cramping and pain.
- Track Your Symptoms: Keeping track of your menstrual cycle and bowel symptoms can help you identify patterns and anticipate when period poops might be more problematic. This allows you to proactively implement management strategies. Tools like the myIBS app can be helpful for symptom tracking.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While changes in bowel habits during your period are usually normal, there are situations where you should seek medical advice. If you experience:
- Severe pain that is debilitating and interferes with your daily life.
- Blood in your stool.
- Persistent diarrhea or constipation that lasts for more than a few days.
- New or worsening digestive symptoms that are not typical for your period.
It’s also important to be aware that severe pain during periods, bowel movements, or urination can be a symptom of endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, and it can affect the bowels and cause significant pain. If you suspect endometriosis, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.
In conclusion, it’s understandable to experience pain when pooping on your period. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly prostaglandins, play a significant role in altering bowel function and increasing sensitivity. While period poops can be uncomfortable, understanding the causes and implementing self-care strategies can help manage the symptoms. If you have concerns about severe pain or other digestive changes, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
References:
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-do-you-poop-more-on-your-period/
- Pati, Girish K et al. “Irritable Bowel Syndrome and the Menstrual Cycle.” Cureus vol. 13,1 e12692. 14 Jan. 2021, doi:10.7759/cureus.12692
- Judkins, T.C., Dennis-Wall, J.C., Sims, S.M. et al. Stool frequency and form and gastrointestinal symptoms differ by day of the menstrual cycle in healthy adult women taking oral contraceptives: a prospective observational study. BMC Women’s Health 20, 136 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-020-01000-x
- https://flo.health/menstrual-cycle/health/period/diarrhea-before-during-period
- https://cdhf.ca/en/digestive-conditions/constipation/
- Wald A, Van Thiel DH, Hoechstetter L, Gavaler JS, Egler KM, Verm R, Scott L, Lester R. (1981) ‘Gastrointestinal transit: the effect of the menstrual cycle’. Gastroenterology. Jun;80(6):1497-500. PubMed PMID: 7227774
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis
